Welcome Cameron Petersen

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I became a teacher because I looked up to so many of my teachers growing up, and I was inspired to make children as curious and enthusiastic about learning as I was. 

What other schools have you worked at or where else have you taught?

 I've worked at Richlands East State School for three years teaching Year One.

Who is in your family? What do you like to do together?

 I have two older brothers, a wonderful Mother and a larrikin Father. We love spending time outdoors and getting together for a Sunday meal. 

What do you like to do on the weekend?

On the weekend I spend most of time kickboxing, or I'm in the gym being active. Between that you can find me with my lovely girlfriend or hanging out with my cat. 

Where is the most exciting place you have visited?

The most exciting place I've been would be Bangkok, Thailand. I went there on a training holiday with my gym and trained alongside some of the best Muay Thai fighters in Thailand. By no means was I able to keep up, but it was a phenomenal experience nonetheless.

Welcome Luke Marchment

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

Getting kids excited about coming to school and learning new things has always appealed to me.

What other schools have you worked at or where else have you taught?

 This is my first year as an official teacher which has me really excited. My last two practicums were at St Laurence’s College in South Bank and Patrick’s Road State School in Ferny Grove.

Who is in your family? What do you like to do together?

 I live with my wife Lianah (the wedding was on the 9^th), her brother and two mini poodles; Henry and Loki. We like to go on big walks and road trips together.

What do you like to do on the weekend?

 I love playing tennis and Chess. I often drive down to Ballina/Byron to catch up with family and friends.

Where is the most exciting place you have visited?

Rome. Easily. I was only there for two days when I was 15. From what I remember, I was bombarded on all sides by excitement. The food, the old buildings, the empire, the hand gestures, and all of the stuff I wanted to do. There just wasn’t enough time and I will have to go back some day.

Welcome Clarrisa Fraser

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I love the journey of seeing children work toward their potential.

What other schools have you worked at or where else have you taught?

Autism Queensland, Ipswich West State School, Indooroopilly State School, Graceville State School and Westside Christian College.

Who is in your family? What do you like to do together?

My husband Chris and I have 3 energetic daughters. We love going for bush walks in the forest behind our house.

What do you like to do on the weekend?

I am a big participant of parkrun and celebrated my 100th this time last year! We also love camping and exploring new places.

Where is the most exciting place you have visited?

Mt Kilimanjaro! We hiked this on a delayed honeymoon. Seeing the shimmering glacier at dawn on summit day after hiking ‘pole, pole’ (slowly, slowly) from midnight was an incredible experience.

Welcome Jessica Watkins

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I became a teacher because I think children are the best people with their honesty, love and curiosity. I had a few really amazing teachers that really listened and cared about me, and made my life better by doing so, and I hope to be that teacher for my students.

What other schools have you worked at or where else have you taught?

I have come from Lockhart State School, in a remote indigenous community in Far North Qld, where the children fished and hunted for their own food and rode horses bareback around town. I taught grade 3 and 4 with class sizes around 13 students who were all cousins, not just with each other, but almost all the other kids in the school.

Who is in your family? What do you like to do together?

My partner, Laura, and I are expecting our first child any day now so we’re very happy to be back in Brisbane with our extended families.

What do you like to do on the weekend?

I used to work as a Tour guide in Alice Springs and I love doing anything outside - bush walking, swimming and camping. I’ve recently taken up running and paddle boarding.

Where is the most exciting place you have visited?

What I consider to be exciting about the different places at home and around the world would be their beauty. So in saying that the some of the most beautiful places I have visited include; Zion National park in Utah, the Larapinta Trail just outside of Alice Springs and Sierra Nevada in Spain.

Welcome Felicia Chapman

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I have always loved working with children (and love stationery!!)

What other schools have you worked at or where else have you taught?

I started in child care many moons ago and then moved to London for 5 years, teaching in a Catholic primary school. When I returned I taught at John Paul College in Logan, Coomera Rivers State School and have finally found a home at Yeronga.

Who is in your family? What do you like to do together?

I am not married and do not have children (I work with them everyday!). I have an adorable little yellow budgie named Kirro. I have a close relationship with my sister who lives in Bundaberg.

What do you like to do on the weekend?

I love socialising with friends, going to the movies, and trying new things in Brisbane. I am a supporter of the Brisbane Lions and attend every home game. Also, I am currently rehearsing for the "Sleeping Beauty" musical through the Brisbane Arts theatre on Sundays.... You can see this children's play in the Easter holidays.

Where is the most exciting place you have visited?

I love traveling and try to explore a new place as often as possible. My favourite destinations have been Egypt, Turkey and camping in Alaska. Last year I walked the Three Capes track in Tasmania.